Several factors can reduce real-world range below the EPA estimate:
- Cold weather — lithium-ion batteries lose efficiency in low temperatures. Range can drop 20–40% in freezing conditions.
- Highway driving — aerodynamic drag at higher speeds uses more energy than city driving
- Heating and air conditioning — climate control draws directly from the battery, especially cabin heating in winter
- Driving style — aggressive acceleration reduces efficiency; smooth, anticipatory driving maximizes it
- Cargo and passengers — added weight reduces range
- Tire pressure — underinflated tires increase rolling resistance
Using features like pre-conditioning (warming or cooling the cabin while plugged in) can help minimize the impact of weather on range.